Side curtain airbag and method and apparatus for manufacturing a side curtain airbag

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for forming a seam of an inflatable cushion. The apparatus having: a means for securing a first portion of material and a second portion of material together to define the seam of the inflatable cushion, wherein an inner surface of the first portion is secured to an inner surface of the second portion only by a plurality of stitches; and a first means for continuously feeding a first strip of material into the apparatus forming the seam such that the first strip of material is secured to an outer surface of either the first portion of material or the second portion of the material of the inflatable cushion when the seam is formed and wherein the first strip of material is secured thereto only by the plurality of stitches, and wherein the first strip of material is fed from a spool of the first strip of material.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/070,063 filed Nov. 1, 2013, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/462,192 filed May 2, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,573,637, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/481,549 filed May 2, 2011, the contents each of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto.

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/070,063 filed Nov. 1, 2013, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/462,192 filed May 2, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,573,637, which is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/859,529 filed Aug. 19, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,282,125, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/235,328 filed Aug. 19, 2009, the contents each of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto.

BACKGROUND

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate generally to inflatable curtain airbags and methods for constructing the same.

Various side impact or rollover airbags (also referred to as side curtains or curtain airbags) provide a cushion between a side of a vehicle and the occupant. Side curtain airbags generally deploy downward from a stowed position within the roofline of vehicle and inflate between the occupant and the vehicle interior side structure, such as the side windows and the A, B and/or C pillars.

A side curtain airbag generally consists of two fabric layers either sewn or interwoven together to create a plurality of inflatable cells. These cells are inflated during a predetermined activation event wherein a signal is provided to inflate the side curtain airbag. A side curtain may have a plurality of cells in various arrangements and/or configurations.

In some applications, it is desirable to provide an inflatable cushion or airbag with a low leak seam and method for providing such an inflatable cushion. In other applications, it is desirable to provide an inflatable cushion tailored to provide support across an area of deployment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Thus in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention there is provided an inflatable cushion for a side of a vehicle. The inflatable cushion having a first portion of material; a second portion of material, the first portion of material being secured to the second portion of material to define the inflatable cushion; wherein at least a portion of a peripheral edge of the inflatable cushion is defined by a seam wherein an inner surface of the first portion is secured to an inner surface of the second portion only by a plurality of stitches; and wherein a strip of a third portion of material is applied to the seam of an outer surface of either the first portion or the second portion when the plurality of stitches are applied.

A method for forming a seam of an inflatable cushion, the method including the steps of: securing a first portion of material and a second portion of material to define the seam of the inflatable cushion wherein an inner surface of the first portion is secured to an inner surface of the second portion only by a plurality of stitches; and continuously feeding a strip of material into a sewing machine forming the seam such that the strip of material is secured to an outer surface of either the first portion of material or the second portion of the material of an inflatable cushion, wherein the strip of material is secured thereto only by the plurality of stitches and wherein no adhesives are used to secure the strip of material or the first portion of material or the second portion of material to each other.

An inflatable cushion for a side of a vehicle, the inflatable cushion having: at least one inflatable cell proximate to an end of an inflatable portion of the inflatable cushion, the least one inflatable cell being defined by a first layer of cushion fabric secured to a second layer of cushion fabric; a single sheet of material secured to the inflatable cushion, the single sheet of fabric defining a non-inflatable portion of the inflatable cushion and wherein a portion of the single sheet of material traverses the at least one inflatable cell and is tangent to a face of the at least one inflatable cell when it is inflated such that upon inflation of the at least one inflatable cell tension is created in the single sheet of fabric and wherein the single sheet of material passes through a slot located between the at least one inflatable cell and another inflatable cell such that the single sheet of material traverses the another inflatable cell and is tangent to a face of the another inflatable cell.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view of a vehicle with an inflated side curtain airbag;

FIG. 2 is an elevational view of the airbag in FIG. 1;

FIG. 2A is an elevational view of an alternative airbag;

FIGS. 3 and 4 are views of a portion of an airbag having a seam constructed in accordance with one non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 5-11B are views illustrating an apparatus and method for forming seams of an airbag in accordance with non-limiting exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 12A-12H are views illustrating nesting of portions and assembly of airbags constructed in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 13-13B illustrate a portion of the seam of an airbag constructed in accordance with one non-limiting exemplary embodiment;

FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate alternative seams of airbags constructed in accordance with various embodiments;

FIGS. 15A-16B are additional views illustrating nesting of portions of airbags constructed in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 17 and 18 are graphs illustrating performance of airbags seams in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 19 illustrates a leak sample test cushion configuration/size used for tests in graphs FIGS. 17 and 18

FIG. 20 is a view illustrating a diffuser tube in accordance with another embodiment; and

FIGS. 21-26 illustrate airbags constructed in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope and spirit thereof. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used on another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Reference is made to the following patents, patent publications, and patent applications, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/813,910 filed Jun. 11, 2010, which claims the benefit of United Stated Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/186,656 filed Jun. 12, 2009 and published as U.S. 20110057425; U.S. Ser. No. 11/190,499 filed Jul. 26, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,784,822; and U.S. Ser. No. 12/256,224 filed Oct. 22, 2008, and published as U.S. 20090127837, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,971,899 the contents each of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto.

Referring to the drawings, and particularly to FIG. 1, a vehicle 10 is shown. Vehicle 10 includes an A-pillar 12, a B-pillar 14, and a C-pillar 16. A non-limiting side curtain airbag 18 is illustrated and extends between A-pillar 12 and C-pillar 16. In FIG. 1, airbag 18 is shown in an inflated state. In this regard, an inflator 20 provides a gas necessary to inflate airbag 18. Inflators 20, 21 and 23 are shown in dashed lines to display alternative locations for the inflator. Thus, the inflator may be located in the B-pillar, in the C-pillar, in the roof, or in another suitable location within vehicle 10.

Before airbag 18 is deployed, it may be stored within roof rail 22 of vehicle 10. Optionally, tethers 24 and 26 may be used to restrain airbag 18. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, tethers 24 and 26 attach at one end to airbag 18 and at the other end to the body of the vehicle.

Referring now to FIG. 2, further details of side curtain airbag 18 can be most easily explained. Airbag 18 includes a plurality of substantially isolated cells 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, and 40. Cells 28, 30, and 32 make up a rear bank of cells between B-pillar 14 and C-pillar 16, while cells 34, 26, 38, and 40 make up a front bank of cells between A-pillar 12 and B-pillar 14. Area 42 is not inflated because an occupant is less likely to come into contact with that area. In some embodiments, however, area 42 may be a cell, or may inflate at a time later than the other cells.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 2, tabs 44 are provided in this embodiment to attach airbag 18 to roof rail 22. Instead of tabs 44, any suitable method of attachment may be used. A delivery tube 46 having a plurality of outlet orifices 48 is also provided. In the illustrated embodiment, outlet orifices 48 are formed as scoops. Orifices 48 open to cells 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, and 40. To reduce turbulence within tube 46 and to better distribute the gas, outlet orifices 48 may be staggered about tube 48. Such staggering can be seen in FIG. 2. Delivery tube 46 is sealed at 50. Gas from inflator 23 enters delivery tube 46 at end 52 and is distributed into the cells through outlet orifices 48. The mating of delivery tube 46 with airbag 18 can be described. In this embodiment, tube 46 is inserted into the top portion of airbag 18. A top perimeter seam 54 runs along the top of airbag 18 and forms an upper restraint for tube 46. A series of sewn ovals 56 are formed by stitching between the cells. The tops of ovals 56 form a substantially tight fit with the bottom of tube 46. In this context, “tight” does not mean that no gas is able to flow between ovals 56 and tube 46. Instead, “tight” refers to a close-fit that may be optimized to allow some gas flow between adjacent cells. Along with continuous seam 58 and seams 66, 68, 70, 72, and 74, ovals 56 form cells 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, and 40. Any of the sewn seams may be single stitched, double stitched, or attached in another appropriate manner, depending on the strength and air-tightness requirements of the airbag. Although specific configurations of the airbag including cells, delivery tube, means for restricting fluid flow between the cells (e.g., stitching and/or ovals 56) is provided in FIGS. 1 and 2. It is understood that the airbag 10 can be constructed in numerous configurations which may or may not include the specific elements illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, in FIG. 2A, the means for restricting fluid flow may be provided by stitching only or there may be no means for restricting fluid flow between the cells. Also, the diffuser tube may be fabric or constructed alternative materials as will be discussed herein. Still further, the configuration of the airbag may vary including the location number and size of the inflatable portions as well as the un-inflatable portions.

Referring now to at least FIGS. 3-11B and in one exemplary embodiment and for providing strength to an unsealed seam, such as those disclosed in U.S. Publication No. 20110057425; U.S. Pat. No. 7,784,822; and U.S. Publication No. 20090127837, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,971,899 a 3rd exterior layer of fabric is sewn to the cushion in conjunction with the unsealed seams that are exposed to pressure from the inflation of the cushion, which have been found to help further reduce leakage. As used herein, “unsealed seam” refers to the seams disclosed in the aforementioned publications and patents corporative herein wherein two layers of the inflatable cushion are only secured together by a plurality of stitches and no other materials (e.g., adhesives, etc.). In one embodiment, this 3^(rd) exterior layer of fabric is sewn directly on the unsealed seam.

As illustrated in FIG. 6B, this 3^(rd) fabric layer is positioned on the needle side during the sewing process which has been noted to typically have a higher leak rate than the bobbin side of the cushion. Therefore, positioning the un-inflated fabric layer to be sewn together as a 3rd layer when the inflatable panels are sewn will be advantageous for increased pressure retention. Furthermore, sewing this 3rd exterior layer of fabric on the needle side of the cushion is most favorable for decreasing cushion leakage.

An additional embodiment taking advantage of this 3rd exterior layer to reduce leakage may utilize a 3rd layer on selected seam areas. For example, lower cost polyester fabric panels with “strips” of polyester fabric used as a 3rd external layer. Tests have found that adding this 3rd exterior layer to seams on the needle side substantially increased the cushion pressure retention over time in a 420 denier polyester with otherwise inadequate leakage performance without the 3^(rd) exterior layer. It should also be understood that having an additional (or a 4th exterior layer if using exterior layers on both sides of the cushion) exterior layer added to the seam on the bobbin side of the cushion further reduces overall leakage, albeit not to the same degree as an exterior layer added to the needle side.

As mentioned above, the use of an additional exterior layer of fabric or other membranes of various types to the seam allows for reduced overall cushion leakage. In addition, it is also noted that this benefit was greater with the exterior layer being applied on the needle side of the cushion verses the bobbin side, however if used on both sides additional benefit is found.

In order to further benefit from the additional exterior layer(s), a cost efficient application of the exterior layer(s) is desired, in order to bring enhanced performance for rollover applications in the sewn unsealed low leak cushions. In one implementation, the third or fourth or both exterior layer(s) only needs to cover the seam itself so it can be a relatively small quantity of material, for example, application of “strips” or “ribbon” of fabric can be used to cover an unsealed pressure seam.

In one non-limiting application, these strips of fabric can be narrow fabrics or similar suited items that run along the length of the pressure seam. As used herein a pressure seam is any seam of the airbag or inflatable cushion that is exposed to gas pressure when the cushion is filled with gas.

In accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention various ways are provided for fabricating the unsealed cushion utilizing the exterior layer(s) on the seam. One method discovered to be simple and very cost effective is to add the ‘strip” or narrow fabric ‘ribbon” layer to the needle side of the cushion as the cushion is being sewn by feeding the exterior layer or narrow strip of fabric (or ribbon fabric) into the needle “automatically” without having to position it by hand and thus have it fed into the needle through a positioning device/fixture on or close or incorporated into the sewing machine's presser “foot”.

The presser foot is used to press against the base fabric layers being sewn while the needle is positioned within an opening in the presser foot. The needle penetrates the fabric layers and creates the seam. This can also be achieved with a roll of narrow fabric (or ribbon fabric) which is fed in from a spool of the ribbon fabric positioned overhead and out of the way of the machine operator. Of course, the narrow strip of fabric or ribbon fabric can be positioned in any other alternative location to be automatically fed into the needle, on top of the base fabric being sewn together. The presser foot also serves the purpose of pushing the fabric layers down against an engagement claw on the table face of the machine. This is also referred to as the needle plate which has grooves cut within it to allow the claw(s) to move up and down to advance the fabric layers through the machine as the seam is created.

The preferred machine utilized is a drop feed machine creating a single lock stitch seam. The engagement claw assembly found to be most effective is a multi claw which has claws around the needle hole (e.g., front back and/or both sides of the needle hole).

In addition, it has also been discovered that an additional external fabric ribbon strip can be added to the underside of the fabrics being joined together by the seam. As discussed herein, this would be the 4th layer or additional external strip of fabric added to the bobbin side of the cushion. It can be fed into the needle in a similar fashion as with the needle side, only fed in beneath the base fabric layers instead of on top through the modified presser foot assembly. The bobbin side ribbon layer can also be fed from a spool of the ribbon fabric where the spool may be positioned underneath the sewing table or alternatively also positioned above the table out of the way of the operator. Other storage locations of either spool are also possible and the ribbon layer is simply channeled through whatever desired path to get to the needle. Similar to the unsealed seam and in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the external strips or ribbons of material are also only secured to the cushion fabric by the plurality of stitches and no other materials (e.g., adhesives, etc.) are used to secure the strips or ribbons to the inflatable cushion. Moreover, these strips or ribbons are supplied and secured to the seam during the same stitching process that secures the two layers of the inflatable cushion together.

In one example found to work effectively is to channel the bobbin side external ribbon layer underneath a “spoon” or a device that allows the base fabric to slide over prior to being fed into the needle.

For example, the attached FIG. illustrate fabric ribbon ‘strips” 111 attached to or being attached to an inflatable cushion constructed in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention. For example, the strips 111 can be quite narrow (e.g., ¼″, ⅜″ etc.) and be attached to the cushion quite similar to like simply having additional thread added into the seam. FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate a portion of an inflatable cushion 110 wherein the 3^(rd) and 4^(th) exterior ribbon layers 111 are treated somewhat as simply a 3^(rd) and 4^(th) “thread”. As a seam section is completed the 3rd and 4th exterior layers (needle side and bobbin side respectively) can also simply be cut or trimmed similar to trimming or cutting the thread at the completion of a seam. This can also be automated just as it can be with the thread trimming instead of the operator needing to do it by hand.

For example and as illustrated in FIGS. 5-11A, the ribbon layer 111 is continuously fed from a spool 113 rotatably mounted to a structure 114 as a seam is being stitched by a sewing machine 115. As mentioned above, the ribbon layer 111 can be continuously fed to both sides of the seam (e.g., bobbin side and needle side). Alternatively, the ribbon layer 111 is only applied to either the bobbin side or the needle side as the seam is being stitched. In order to provide this continuous feeding a modified presser foot assembly 117 is provided. The modified presser foot assembly 117 has a guide member 119 configured to receive the ribbon layer 111, which will now be referred to as the needle side ribbon layer 111′ while the bobbin side ribbon layer is referred to as 111″.

As illustrated in the attached FIG., a seam 120 is formed by stitching two layers 122 and 124 of the airbag 110 together by passing a thread 126 and a needle 127 through each of the layers 122 and 124 as well as the needle side ribbon layer 111′ and/or the bobbin side ribbon layer 111″, which as mentioned above can include both the needle side ribbon layer and the bobbin side ribbon layer or alternatively only one of them or as mentioned in the previous publications show ribbon layers and just an unsealed seam. In addition, a bobbin thread 121 is fed from a bobbin (not shown).

In order to continuously feed the bobbin side ribbon layer 111″, a spoon 128 is provided wherein the bobbin side ribbon layer 111″ is continuously fed from underneath. This allows the bottom side or bobbin side ribbon fabric layer 111″ to be continuously fed from a location that is out of the way of the operator. In an alternative configuration and as illustrated in at least FIGS. 10 and 11, the spoon 128 is replaced by a plate or needle plate 130. Plate 130 allows the bottom ribbon layer 111″ to be fed from underneath a table 132 of the sewing machine or sewing machine apparatus. The plate 130 and a portion of the sewing machine base 134 define a channel 135 that allows for the bobbin side ribbon 111 “to be fed under the fabric layers 122 and 124 as seam 120 is formed. In one embodiment, the channel 135 is formed by plate 130 and base 134 alternatively, the channel 135 is formed solely by plate 130 and/or base 134. Plate 130 also has a plurality of access openings 137 that allow for access to the bobbin side ribbon layer 111”. In addition, plate 130 also has an outlet slot or opening 140 allow for the bobbin side ribbon layer 111″ to be fed into the seam 120 as its being formed. Also shown, are openings 139 for a claw 141 of the sewing machine 115.

Similarly, the foot 136 of the presser foot assembly 117 also has a channel 138 defined therein to allow for the continuous feeding of the needle side ribbon layer 111′. FIGS. 11-11B illustrate an alternative presser foot configuration 136.

FIGS. 13-13B illustrate a seam 120 formed in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention wherein a needle side ribbon layer 111′ and a bobbin side ribbon layer 111″ are continuously fed into seam 120 as layers 122 and 124 are stitched together along with the ribbon layers 111′ and 111″.

Alternative methods for attaching an exterior layer or providing a ribbon is to fold over the outer edge of one of the layers 122, 124 of the base fabric of the inflatable cushion to make it become the exterior layer, this can be done in several different ways as shown in at least FIGS. 14B-14D. FIG. 14A illustrates layers 122 and 124 secured together via seam 120 wherein a third piece of fabric 150 is folded around the peripheral edge of both layers 122 124 as seam 120 is being formed. Alternatively and in FIG. 14B, the top layer 122 is folded over well the bobbin side ribbon layer 111″ is provided to seam 120 as mentioned above. In yet another alternative and in FIG. 14C both layers 122 and 124 are folded over each other at the edge as seam 120 is formed. FIG. 14D illustrates layer 124 being folded over while the needle side ribbon layer 111′ is applied to the seam 120.

If this fold over is done with the needle side base fabric layer where it then also becomes the 3rd layer on the bobbin side then the automatic feed of a narrow fabric layer can be utilized on the needle side of the seam or vice versa. Again, having both sides of the cushion utilize an exterior layer on the seam will bring the most benefit for overall pressure retention over time.

The fold over is also accomplished automatically as the operator feeds the base fabrics into the sewing needle through a fixture that folds the outer edge back onto itself or onto the opposite layer of base fabric.

A typical salvage edge perimeter found to work best in production is anywhere from 10 to 15 mm of salvage after the perimeter seam. Certainly any other salvage width is practical depending on whether further mounting tabs or tethers may be attached to the perimeter salvage. So, in the options of folding over a fabric layer or adding a fabric layer that wraps the perimeter and both seams of the base fabric layer(s), a larger exterior fabric strip width will be required then in the preferred embodiment, which is not required to extend over the entire perimeter salvage area, as well as the seam

The “strips” or ribbon fabric can be cut from flat fabrics into narrow strips. This can be done in several methods known in the art. The fabric can be cut after being rolled onto cardboard rolls and sliced to the desired width. In this example method the ribbon layers are already rolled up ready to install to the machine dispenser holding device. Another method is to transverse wind the ribbon onto a roll in order to increase the quantity of ribbon on a given spool.

It has also been found that cutting a base flat fabric on the bias to the weft and warp can be advantageous when sewing around curves in the cushion. This is compared to cutting the narrow strips parallel to the fabric yarns. By cutting on a bias or 45 degrees to the warp and weft, the fabric strip has been found to not “pucker” and lay flatter around curves than compared to the strips that are cut along the or parallel to the warp or weft. To keep the strip or narrow fabric in a continuous or long ribbon the ends of the cut biased strips can be attached together and then rolled up on a spool. One such method to join the cut strips is to sew the ends together after the strips are positioned together at their ends.

Use of both coated and uncoated fabrics for this exterior layer has been found to work. However, noted the coated fabric having a performance advantage over the uncoated as a ribbon layer. In cases where a coated fabric is used for this purpose, facing the coated surface toward the base fabric as it is sewn has shown some advantages of increased pressure holding capability over the coated surface of the exterior fabric facing away from the base fabric. The base fabrics are typically sewn together with the coated surfaces facing each other or on the interior of the sewn cushion. (Ex, silicon coated fabric) This has also been viewed in the industry as the preferred choice due to abrasion that may remove coating allowing for leakage. It also keeps the fabric from binding during unfolding where if the silicone or other coating is on the outside it could have a higher tendency to bind rubbing silicone surface against another silicon surface. The benefit of using an uncoated fabric as the exterior layer is simply reduced cost. For example, utilizing fabric in this way in such narrow strips allows for very efficient use of the fabric. Since they are straight narrow strips when cut, woven, etc., there is essentially no nesting to be done. Or close to 100% of the roll of fabric can be utilized for the strips or ribbon of fabric. The ribbon strips can be fabricated using a blade cutter capable of cutting multiple layers. The process is simple as well as only straight cuts need to be performed as the roll of fabric is either pulled through the blades or the blades move through the fabric layers to create the ribbon strips of fabric. Or as mentioned earlier, the blade can cut the roll itself into multiple small rolls ready for use.

For example and to show how efficiently and low cost the ribbon fabric can be, the following example is illustrated: Cutting the ribbon fabrics into ⅜″ wide strips. Taking a typical 2 row side curtain cushion, with a total seam length of approximately 175 inches and using the external fabric strips on both sides of the cushion and not utilizing the sail panels as a 3rd or 4th external layer, the total length requirement for the ribbon fabric to cover both sides would be approximately 350 inches. If the external ribbon layer used a premium fabric such as a 53×53 weave count of a 420 denier with 35 g of silicon coating per square meter, the cost for this fabric today in volume is approximately $2.25/square yard (1 sq yd=1296 inches squared). 350 inches of the ribbon fabric in the ⅜″ width would utilize approximately 131 square inches of fabric or converted to sq yards=0.101 sq yds. This would have a cost of approx 0.23 cents. If a lower cost fabric such as an uncoated 630 denier at a cost of $1.55/sq yd is used the cost for the ribbon fabric for both sides of the cushion would be approx 0.16 cents. So, for a relatively small cost for the ribbon fabric the pressure retention of the sewn cushion can be significantly enhanced as shown in the examples in the chart of FIG. 17. Alternatively, if the ¼″ width ribbon layers found effective were used, the cost would be further reduced. Further, the ¼′ width also may be the width of choice due to its handling more like a simple 3^(rd) and 4^(th) ‘thread” than the ⅜″ or larger widths.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is where one of the base layers of fabric is cut just oversized compared to the mating section it will be sewn to. Accordingly, the outer edge of the larger cut section will be folded over and sewn back onto itself or onto the mating fabric layer when sewing the cushion.

As mentioned, a width found effective for this exterior layer “strip” is ⅜″. Ribbon strips as small in width as ¼″ have also been added effectively to the cushion even around standard cushion seam curves. Of course larger widths can be utilized but as the width increases so would the cost. The width needs to be wide enough where the sewn seam always falls within the width of the narrow exterior layer even as the sewing operation goes around curves. It has been found in early prototype machine set-ups that the seam may wander off the center of the narrow exterior layer as the base fabric is turned by the operator during sewing. Therefore the width is wide enough to compensate for this occurrence. Non-limiting examples of effective widths include the following dimensions ¼″, ⅜″ and ½″ while ⅜″ or ¼″ appears to be a good width to use for most cushion applications. Of course, other widths greater or less than the aforementioned values are considered to be within the scope of exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

As mentioned in prior applications and patents incorporated herein by reference thereto, sail panels can be used as the exterior layer in the sections of the seam where they may be located. This eliminates the need for a separate exterior layer to be added by the automated feed from a spool or other methods mentioned. In these areas the operator simply needs to cut the feed of the narrow fabric on the side of the cushion where the sail panel will be sewn into the cell pressure seam and then resume the exterior ribbon layer again once past the area of the sail panel. For simplification of the sewing it is also anticipated to simply use the ribbon strips as the 3rd and 4th layers instead of utilizing the sail panels for such. Alternatively, the 3^(rd) or 4^(th) ribbon layer can be sewn over the sail panel as well as the base fabric layers. In this case there would be 5 total layers of fabric within the pressure seam.

Referring now to the Chart of FIG. 17, tests were conducted on sample cushions comparing cushions utilizing a 3rd layer of ribbon fabric on the needle side of the cushion to one without the 3rd layer. Tests were also conducted comparing the use of a ribbon fabric exterior layer on both sides of the cushion otherwise known as a 3rd and 4th layer of external ribbon fabric. All other variables were held constant such as thread type, tensions for both bobbin and needle, stitches per inch (SPI) of the seam density and base fabric. The Sample cushions were tested using shop air where the samples are filled to 42 kpa and then the shop air supply is shut off and the pressure decay is monitored over a 6 second time frame. A pressure of 42 kpa was chosen because that is close to a typical cushion peak pressure in a “Diode” Low Leak Sewn Unsealed Seam cushion. In all cases the samples using the 3rd or 3rd and 4th layer(s) resulted in substantially improved pressure retention over the Baseline seam sewing which did not utilize the external fabric layers.

In one comparison the pressure retention increased just over 3 times more at the 6 second time frame using 3rd and 4th layers compared to the Baseline without the external fabric layers (53×53 420 denier nylon 35 gsm silicon coating base fabric example). The pressure went from 9.6 kpa to just over 30 kpa @ 6 sec. The pressure went from a 9.6 kpa at 6 sec to 21 kpa @ 6 seconds using the 53×53 fabric with 35 g silicone coating and a 3rd exterior layer only. In both these examples the same base fabric was also used as the fabric choice for the narrow external fabric layer(s).

Another alternative the exterior layer of fabric offers is to reduce the SPI of the seam density utilized in order to possibly decrease overall sewing times. For instance, comparing to the above example when the same 53×53 fabric was sewn using a 23 SPI the pressure at 6 sec was 16 kpa vs the 21 kpa that had a 28 SPI seam density. Both compare to the baseline 28 SPI with a 6 sec pressure of 9.6 kpa that did not utilize the 3rd or 4th exterior layer.

Tests were then performed utilizing 100% helium instead of shop air. There was a noticeable further loss in pressure using the helium versus the shop air. Helium has a smaller gas molecule compared to the majority of the gas molecules in air so the helium finds more gas molecules leaking through similar leak paths as compared to the shop air.

In another example a fabric with a 41×41 weave count, also 420 denier and 25 grams silicon coating per square meter (gsm) was used. In the case of the Baseline test (high density seam without external fabric fabric(s), the cushion leaked quite substantially with only 1.3 kpa remaining at 6 seconds. The results using the 3rd and 4th layer of external fabric were substantially higher than the baseline with over 25 kpa remaining at 6 seconds compared to the 1.3 kpa or almost 20 times more pressure retention! In effect, the 3rd and 4th external fabric layers allow for a low cost fabric that would not even be considered for use in a rollover cushion to now provide exceptional pressure performance characteristics. The 41×41 weave construction is a lower cost nylon fabric choice and also offers a mass and packaging advantage over higher weave count fabric constructions.

Other fabric examples are the use of a polyester fabric for reduced cost. Similar to the 41×41 fabric the use of polyester fabric that would otherwise not even be able to be considered can now work for the rollover cushion using the 3rd and 4th layer construction. An example of polyester fabric is also shown in the histogram chart. One that used a 49×49 weave in a 420 denier with an Ultra Perm coating that is added in a dipping process that adds coating to both sides of a fabric sheet.

So, depending on the application pressure requirements, mass, cost and or packaging requirements various options exist for meeting increased pressure performance or the use of lower cost fabrics for the sewn cushions that could not have been even considered before for a rollover performance cushion

It should be understood that while this invention discusses the use of the low leak seam in side curtain application, any other airbag application may use the same low leak seam construction. Even applications that don't require extended pressure retention performance can benefit from the low leak seam. For example, the adding of the 3^(rd) or 3^(rd) and 4^(th) external layers allows the seam to have reduced comb stripping when pressure and tension is applied to the seam. The external layer(s) add integrity to the seam. So, in this example a lower denier fabric construction that had been found previously to be too “weak” for a particular application due to failure or too high of leakage at the seam may now again be a candidate for the application. Say a 210 denier fabric construction that previously failed at the seam during filling by an inflator. Now, with the same 210 denier fabric and the 3^(rd) and 4^(th) exterior fabric layers added the seam no longer fails in the same inflation application. What this in effect does is allows the application to now utilize the lower denier construction as the main fabric panels instead of having to use the next higher strength construction such as a 315 denier fabric which brings a mass and packagabilty disadvantage. By packagability it is meant that when the airbag is folded and wrapped up to be packaged in its application, the size of the package or “envelope” of the folded airbag will package better-smaller with a lower denier fabric than a higher denier fabric. So, the lower denier option is said to have better packagability.

Airbag applications that may benefit from this invention range from automotive side curtains, knee bags, between passenger bags, drivers bag, passenger bags, side impact bags, roof bags and even other vehicles such as large trucks, buses trains and even aircraft. On an aircraft the mass and packaging of the cushion become very important design features. Due to the lower denier fabric, lower mass becomes a benefit.

“Segmentation” of the sewn cushions for enhanced nesting/lower cost is an additional feature found to help reduce overall cushion costs. For example and as illustrated in at least FIGS. 12A-12H and 15A-16B, the nesting and then cutting at more “ideal” areas and subsequent sewing of the fabric sections back together after high nesting efficiencies are achieved is utilized. For example, a plurality of sections 152 of varying sizes are nested are laid out in a predetermined area of fabric 154. The aforementioned figures also illustrate nesting of the ovals or circles 56 and tab portions 44.

This allows a “modular’ approach to be taken by cutting fabric sections and putting the “puzzle pieces” back together. The fabric sections are strategically cut and nested to ideally make “equivalent conforming parts for better mating of fabric sections when nested. This is done wherever possible. Examples of such a cushion design and the accompanying nesting are shown in FIGS. 12A-12H and 15A-16B. The panels are cut to have the high nest efficiencies shown in the FIGS. and then sewn back together as also illustrated. The seam used to sew the segmented panels back together is a lap seam 153.

FIGS. 12A-12D shows the sequence of joining the panels sections together with the lap seam 153, then folding the panels 1, 3 and 5 as illustrated in 12C and finally adding the midsails 6 and 7 and sewing the remaining seams to the cushion 110.

In still another alternative embodiment EMT conduit tubing may be used for the delivery tube 46. This tubing or conduit is typically used in industry to run electrical wire through. Electrical metallic tubing is made from mild steel and is electrically-welded, galvanized and produced to the following specifications:

The above Federal Specification WW-C-563 may still be referenced; however, the federal government has canceled it and has adopted the Underwriters Laboratories 797 and American National Standards Institute C80.3 standards.

-   -   ANSI—American National Standard for Steel Electrical Metallic         Tubing, (EMT) ANSI, C80.3     -   UL Standard for Electrical Metallic tubing—Steel, UL797, File #         E7465

The tube or conduit is made by rolling over sheet and electrically welding the seam.

Initial testing has showed functionality for the use of this EMT conduit as rigid tubing for the air bag application. Deployments using the ½” retail conduit have functioned without issue. This EMT conduit tubing is considerably less expensive than welded pressure tubing or seamless pressure tubing and offers substantial savings as a replacement hard delivery tube in the side curtain airbag application.

If the application should require the use of stronger tubing over the initial area of inflator output then the EMT tubing can be utilized over lengths further away from the inflator and thus eliminating the use of the more expensive pressure tubing throughout the entire length of rigid tubing requirement. Further it has been found that the ½″ EMT conduit works as is in the current side curtain deployments using a cold gas inflator for filling in this example.

The preferred EMT conduit is the “½” conduit” This has dimensions of a 0.042″ wall thickness UL 797/ANSI C80.3 0.706″ OD The EMT conduit tubing can be flared, swaged, crimped, bent and cut or perforated with required orifices for the air bag applications. It has also been known to be weldable with proper preparation of the welding surfaces by cleaning or removing the galvanization coating. This can also be machined off in the areas required or alternatively in higher volume use of the conduit the manufacturer can make special for the airbag application so the end areas are ready for welding. Alternatively, the galvanized conduit can simply be welded using standard welding practices.

One non-limiting configuration of an EMT diffuser tube 46 is illustrated in FIG. 20, diffuser tube 46 has an inlet attachment area 47 and cell outlet openings 48. In one embodiment, an end portion 49 of the of the diffuser tube is compressed and folded back to close off the open end of the conduit and is formed with a V shape 51 to provide additional closure strength of the end portion 49 of the diffuser tube 46.

One technique found effective for closing the end of the conduit is to mechanically crush the end closed and fold it back upon itself. To add further to the strength of the close the overlapped fold is collapsed into a V shape or similar. This has been found to further prevent the crushed end fold from opening during pressurization. This mechanical forming in the V shape also creates a “pocket” for which an outlet orifice can be incorporated for having an outlet port with a generally axial type outlet flow out of the tube end.

Referring now to FIGS. 21-24 an “Enhanced Sail Panel” or “Trampoline” embodiment is illustrated. Reference is also made to the following U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/859,529 filed Aug. 19, 2010, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/235,328 filed Aug. 19, 2009 the contents each of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto.

Further improvements have been found utilizing an exterior layer(s) of lower cost uncoated fabric or other inexpensive material on the outsides of the pressurized cell(s). In a preferred embodiment a relatively narrow width of fabric is used and is channeled as shown in at least FIGS. 21-26.

As illustrated in at least FIGS. 21-24 various options for the enhanced sail panels (“Trampoline”) for an airbag or inflatable cushion 210 are provided. In the one embodiment there is an un-inflated fabric portion or member (or other material substrate) 212 that is sewn to the rearward and inboard side of cell 3 (illustrated in the attached FIG. or other cell that is positioned over the vehicle pillar when inflated). It is understood that the member 212 may comprise any suitable material and may be secured to any portion (inflatable or un-inflatable) of the inflatable cushion in order to provide the desired performance and the locations of securement are not specifically limited to those illustrated in the attached drawings. The fabric portion or member 212 then transverses over cell 3 in the direction of arrow 214 (towards a forward end of the inflatable cushion and a forward end of the vehicle the inflatable cushion is secured to) and through a slot 216 located between cells 2, 3. The fabric member 212 then continues to transverse over both cell 2 on its outboard side and then passes through another slot 218 located between cells 1 and 2 and transverses over and inboard side of cell 1 and extends past the forward end of the inflatable cushion 210 which may be over a handle on the A-pillar and over the outer surface of a portion of the A-pillar or may simply attach under the pillar trim As illustrated, the fabric member 212 extends towards a front tether assembly 220 and then to the A-pillar. As illustrated and in one embodiment, the fabric member 212 also comprises a portion of a front sail portion 224 of the inflatable cushion 210. Alternatively, the fabric member 212 Extends to and attaches to a separate front sail panel 226 as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24.

The seam in which the fabric member is secured to on the rearward side of the cushion (cell 3 rearward seam) was chosen in this embodiment because that particular cell is the cell that when inflated inflates over some or all of the B pillar of the vehicle (pillar between front row of seating and the second row or “backseat”). Thus, the B-pillar will generally keep that part of the cushion more inboard even when the cushion is being forced outboard by an impacting occupant. This makes that cell more ideal for the width of fabric to be secured to at its perimeter as shown. This allows the fabric member to be lifted more inboard upon inflation and even pull the cells it supports on the outboard side more inboard to better resist occupant excursion through the window.

With reference to the above embodiments, the fabric member may be secured to a seam 120 such that it provides an exterior layer applied to the seam as mentioned above.

As the fabric member is passed over the inboard cell(s) and under the outboard inflated cells the tension in the fabric member is increased substantially when the cells are inflated, since the front of the fabric member extends to or is connected thereto and anchored under the A-pillar to the vehicle frame. Also, locating (sewing) the rearward end of the fabric member to the rear side of cell 3 allows the member to be lifted inboard, when the cell inflates, and more toward the occupant and away from the window opening or vehicle structure.

In doing so, the width of fabric can pull the front end cells more inboard (depending on the location of the member 212 with respect to the inflatable cells) and add even significant resistance to pushing the curtain outboard when the occupant interacts with it during a collision or rollover event. The end result is a situation where excursion of an occupant is reduced even further compared to the inflated cushion alone without this additional countermeasure to reduce occupant excursion. In this case, a small advantage is also gained by the exterior width of fabric suspending over two seams between cells. By doing this it can further reduce the penetration of an object into the cushion (such as a pole that would otherwise move more into the seam area versus the seam area covered by the suspended fabric width). Accordingly, at least two advantages are obtained by the fabric width member. This can also be done on the inboard surface of the airbag as shown in the attached FIG. or even both sides. A further advantage of the support member 212 fabric width is it distributes the impact energy. An occupant pushing outward on the front cells or even un-inflated sail panel compresses cell 3 as well due the link via support fabric member 212. For example, the height of the slots (top to bottom) and corresponding height of the portion of the fabric material may be varied from slot to slot or in the case of a single slot vary the height to provide varying degrees performance. Still further, the location of the slots may vary accordingly to also provide varying degrees of tension and/or performance.

A small ramp can be used at the top of the A-Pillar similar to those known in the art to allow a fabric portion or airbag to slide down and be pulled over the A-pillar trim or molding. In this case the fabric is pulled over the A-pillar and A-pillar handle when deployed. Conventional curtain airbags are pulled down and slide down underneath the A-pillar trim molding or pop the A-pillar out or inboard so the sail panel portion or the airbag can deploy downward behind the A-pillar cover (trim).

The fabric member or sail panel is anchored or attached to the vehicle structure under the A-pillar by means known in the art or with the option shown in FIGS. In this embodiment the attaching part is an extended anchor 220 which connects the sail panel and or fabric member to a forward mount location on the vehicle.

One embodiment found effective with an anchor extension feature is to utilize an existing non rotation hole typically just below or above the conventional front tether anchoring thread on a vehicle. This allows for the anchor to be mounted to the existing vehicle anchor point yet extend much further below this point compared to conventional front anchors. Having a ‘pin” or additional feature to position into the anti rotation hole will keep the extended anchor feature from pivoting excessively once loaded by an occupant to further increase the effectiveness of the extended anchor feature. At the end further from the anti-rotation mount is where a fabric tether may be located. This allows for the sail panel anchoring point to be lower and for the sail panel to reach to a lower tensioning location within the window opening.

As mentioned above FIG. 21 illustrates two slot openings 216 and 218 created between the cells, which in the illustrated embodiment are between cells 1-2 and 2-3. In one embodiment, the slot between cells 2 and 3 is a “full” slot where the narrow width fabric member passes freely through the slot over the entire width or the member. In the slot between cells 1-2 the slot has a midsection that the slot is discontinued and then restarted after a small length. In this embodiment about one or two inches so about 2½″ of slot opening, then about 1½″ of connection between cells then another 2½″ of slot opening again. This keeps the gap (separation between cells) between cells smaller on this slot opening area compared to the slot opening between cells 2 and 3. The slot opening, while allowing the fabric member to pass through, also tends to increase the gap between the cells as there is a “tension relief” given in that particular area. What has been discovered is this also allows for the cells most adjacent to the slot opening between the cells to inflate to a slightly greater thickness in that area. (crossvehicle). This can be advantageous having the thicker cell to resist occupant penetration or excursion. It has further been discovered that the slot opening also gives a “tension relief” effect that allows the cells to be pulled slightly more forward and inflated slightly thicker then otherwise without the slot opening(s). This can be done as in the embodiments shown where the lower half of the fabric member portion attaches to the salvage area of the front most cell or alternatively, extends to the front sail panel or even into the front tether and anchor assembly. Alternatively, it can also attach in any other preferred area of the cushion to gain a desired effect. In this case it pulls forward the entire cushion to keep inflated cell areas over a larger portion of the window opening.

In this two slot option the first portion of the fabric member that passes under cell 2 or on the outboard side of cell 2 does a similar function as in the single slot embodiments, where it pulls cell 2 inboard to more effectively help with occupant containment. Then, the fabric layer passes through the front slot to go back to the inboard side of cell 1. Doing this then also allows the portion of the fabric member which is located forward of the inflated cell 1 to take on the “trampoline” effect. This then can allow for occupant interaction with this area of the fabric member to begin sooner then if it was attached to the salvage of cell1 or outboard of cell 1. So, depending on the desired result options are available on how to position or channel the fabric member between or through the various cells of the cushion outboard, inboard or whatever combination is best desired. Many other combinations and variations are also possible and these examples are not to be limiting to the arrangements of the fabric panels traversing the inflated cells.

Each of these fabric member embodiments can also be used in the conventional manner where the conventional front tether/sail panel or fabric member can deploy down behind the A-pillar trim/cover and still gain a benefit.

Tests were performed using theses fabric member embodiments in the conventional manner where the front sail panel/cushion deploys behind the A-pillar trim. The tests compared the difference in the same cushion where the fabric member was used to those tests where the fabric member was removed. These particular tests as shown in FIG. 26 have the fabric member attached to the rearward side of the third cell near the seam and then transverses over the inboard side of cell 3 through the slit opening between cells 2-3 and over cells 2 and 1 on the outboard side. The fabric width member was then attached to the front most perimeter seam of cell 1. A front sail panel then extended over the remaining window opening area and attached to the front tether anchor discussed herein, or any other anchoring device.

The tests performed were containment tests using a head-form that measures excursion past the window plane. These particular tests used an energy found typical to occur in a rollover event at a time of 1.5 seconds into the event or approximately 300 joules using a 40 pound head-form mass. Two impact locations were chosen representing impact locations known in the industry as A1 and A3. These are the window opening positions at both the top and bottom of the front seat window. The comparison of the test results found that with the fabric width member utilized, the excursion results of the head-form mass was approximately 70 to over 100 mm less excursion than the tests performed in the same locations with the fabric width member removed.

The results show substantial differences by the use of a single layer of low cost uncoated fabric for the fabric width member. In these tests of the 2-row cushion, the fabric cost for material was found to be between 0.15-20 cents. Otherwise, other more costly methods would need to be employed to reduce the excursion such as more inflated area and or much larger volume cells or higher pressures/larger inflator output. All of which would also add significantly more to the overall cost of the module assembly.

It has also been found that the use of the fabric width support member allows for the cushion to meet all containment test objectives without the bottom edge of the inflated cushion overlapping the beltline. (Beltline” is the lower opening ledge of the door window—typically near beltline height of a person.) This allows for a shorter overall cushion height to pass testing compared to a more conventional cushion without a support fabric width member countermeasure that requires the cushion lower edge to overlap the beltline area when inflated. In many instances the conventional cushion must overlap and interact with the beltline structure as much as 80 mm when inflated. This adds quite substantially to the overall cushion size, volume, mass and cost. Whereas with the preferred embodiment shown here utilizing the support fabric width member, a much smaller, lower volume, lower mass cushion can meet test objectives.

A further option to the above configuration is to extend the fabric width member forward of the front most cell perimeter (cell 1) and attach it to the front cell panel as shown in FIGS. 23-24. The fabric width member may also act as an outboard enhanced sail panel by sewing it into the seam between the front cell and the next adjacent cell (cell2). This has been found to pull the front cell more inboard to benefit containment performance further. This embodiment may then attach the fabric width member to a standard front sail panel sewn to the front cell forward perimeter as in FIG. 24 or it may attach to an inboard enhanced sail panel as shown in FIG. 23

The support member/fabric width member feature may also be used in the rearward sections of the cushion. 1. Beginning at the inflated cell over the B-Pillar and extending rearward or 2. On the inboard face of the cell over the C-Pillar, for example, and under or outboard of its adjacent cell forward to it on the cushion.

As illustrated in at least FIGS. 21-26 numerous configurations for the support member or panel 212 are provided. For example, in FIG. 21, panel 212 is secured proximate to cell 3 and traverses across an inboard side of the cell through a slot 216 and then traverses across an outboard side of cell 2 only to pass through a slot 218 to traverse across an inboard side of cell 1. Thereafter, the panel 212 extends forward to provide a sail portion 224. In an alternative embodiment FIGS. 23-24, the panel 212 is secured to a separate sail portion 226.

Alternatively and as illustrated in FIG. 22, panel 212 is secured proximate to cell 3 traverses across an inboard side of the cell through a slot 216 and then traverses across an outboard side of cells 2 and 1 and then extends forward to provide a sail portion 224. In an alternative embodiment FIGS. 23-24, the panel 212 is secured to a separate sail portion 226.

FIG. 23 illustrates an embodiment similar to that of FIG. 22 however the distal end 215 of the panel 212 is secured to the outboard side of the separate enhanced sail portion (“Trampoline’) 226.

FIG. 24 illustrates an embodiment similar to that of FIG. 22 however, the distal end 215 of the panel 212 is secured to the outboard side of a more standard separate sail portion 226 that is simply attached to the perimeter of the front cell.

FIG. 25 illustrates an embodiment where the distal end 215 of the panel 212 is shown yet to be secured to the outboard side of cell 1 perimeter and FIG. 26 illustrates an embodiment where the distal end 215 of the panel 212 is now secured to the outboard side of cell 1 perimeter. By securing panel 212 in this fashion it pulls the cell 1 perimeter more rearward toward cell 3. The length of cells 1 through 3 in the un-inflated state are longer than the fabric panel 212.

As used herein outboard refers to the surface of the inflatable cushion facing the exterior of the vehicle while inboard refers to the surface of the inflatable cushion facing the interior of the vehicle

Although specific airbag configurations are illustrated in the attached figures is understood that variations thereof are considered to be within the scope of exemplary embodiments of the present invention. For example, the number size and configuration of the cells, non-inflatable portions, the inflatable portions, etc. may vary.

Is also understood that airbags/inflatable cushions constructed in accordance with numerous various exemplary embodiments of the present invention may include any one or all of the embodiments disclosed herein including those mentioned in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/813,910 filed Jun. 11, 2010, which claims the benefit of United Stated Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/186,656 filed Jun. 12, 2009 and published as U.S. 20110057425; U.S. Ser. No. 11/190,499 filed Jul. 26, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,784,822; and U.S. Ser. No. 12/256,224 filed Oct. 22, 2008, and published as U.S. 20090127837, the contents each of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto.

While the invention has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the present application. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for forming a seam of an inflatable cushion, wherein the apparatus comprises: a means for securing a first portion of material and a second portion of material together to define the seam of the inflatable cushion, wherein an inner surface of the first portion is secured to an inner surface of the second portion only by a plurality of stitches; and a first means for continuously feeding a first strip of material into the apparatus forming the seam such that the first strip of material is secured to an outer surface of either the first portion of material or the second portion of the material of the inflatable cushion when the seam is formed, wherein the first strip of material is secured thereto only by the plurality of stitches and wherein the first strip of material is fed from a spool of the first strip of material.
 2. The apparatus as in claim 1, wherein the apparatus is a sewing machine and the first strip of material is continuously fed into a presser foot assembly of the sewing machine.
 3. The apparatus as in claim 2, wherein the inflatable cushion maintains an internal pressure greater than 10 KPa for at least 6 seconds after the inflatable cushion is inflated.
 4. The apparatus as in claim 1, wherein the first strip of material is secured to the outer surface of the first portion of material and the apparatus further comprises a second means for continuously feeding a second strip of material into the apparatus such that it is located on the outer surface of the second portion of material opposite the first strip of material when the seam is formed and wherein the second strip of material is secured thereto only by the plurality of stitches when the seam is formed and wherein no adhesives are used to secure the second strip of material to the second portion of material.
 5. The apparatus as in claim 4, wherein the inflatable cushion maintains an internal pressure greater than 10 KPa for at least 6 seconds after the inflatable cushion is inflated.
 6. The apparatus as in claim 4, wherein the apparatus is a sewing machine.
 7. The apparatus as in claim 1, wherein the apparatus further comprises a second means for continuously feeding a second strip of material into the apparatus such that the second strip of material is located on the outer surface of the second portion of material opposite the first strip of material and wherein the second strip of material is secured thereto only by the plurality of stitches when the seam is formed.
 8. The apparatus as in claim 1, wherein the first means for continuously feeding the first strip of material is located above a table of the apparatus and the apparatus further comprises a second means for continuously feeding a second strip of material into the apparatus such that the second strip of material is located on the outer surface of the second portion of material opposite the first strip of material and wherein the second strip of material is secured thereto only by the plurality of stitches when the seam is formed and wherein the second means for continuously feeding the second strip of material is located below the table of the apparatus.
 9. The apparatus as in claim 8, wherein the apparatus is a sewing machine.
 10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the second strip of material is fed from a spool of the second strip of material. 